SINGAPORE: Former transport minister S.Iswaran, sentenced to 12 months in jail, will be living in a single-man cell due to heightened safety and security concerns.
According to the Singapore Prison Service (SPS), his cell measures approximately 6.9 sq m and includes a toilet equipped with a straw mat and two blankets. The SPS stated that all inmates receive equal treatment and adhere to the same prison regulations.
A CNA report said the SPS had conducted safety, security, and medical assessments, and concluded that Iswaran posed a higher risk if housed with others.
He began serving his 12-month sentence yesterday.
The SPS said upon admission, inmates have their belongings documented and undergo searches for contraband, followed by medical evaluations. Necessities, such as toiletries and clothing, are provided.
SPS explained that inmates are assigned to different cell types based on safety assessments and medical needs. Iswaran is allowed two monthly visits, one of which can be face-to-face.
After his sentencing, Iswaran, 62, expressed in a Facebook statement that he would not appeal and acknowledged his wrongdoing under the law, apologising to the public for his actions.
"I accept that as a Minister what I did was wrong under Section 165. I accept full responsibility for my actions and apologise unreservedly to all Singaporeans," he said.